Chennai

Gateway to South India

Formerly known as Madras, this is the fourth largest city in India and the capital of the state of Tamil Nadu. Chennai boasts one of the longest city beaches in the world, and the Marina provides a refreshing contrast to the busy city centre.

The Fort St. George area contains many reminders from the time the British established East India Trading Company in the 17th century, including the oldest surviving Anglican church in Asia, the St. Mary's Church.

"Chennai's central location and excellent plane, train and bus connections make it an interesting alternative entry point into India."

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Chennai

Day 1, CHENNAI

Arrive at Chennai where you are met and transferred to your hotel.

Despite being an important city for manufacturing, health care, and IT, Chennai has managed to retain a spaciousness that's lacking in other major Indian cities.

Stay at Horel Marina Towers for two nights

Day 2, CHENNAI

Morning guided tour of Chennai. The Fort St. George area contains many reminders of the city's illustrious past. Amongst the sights in Fort St. George is the oldest surviving Anglican church in Asia, the St. Mary's Church. The Government Museum has an unsurpassed collection of sculptures and Chola bronzes.

The pride of Chennai city is the Marina Beach, the second largest in the world, running for 12 km. The Kapaleeswar, the biggest temple in Chennai, is an ancient Shiva temple. A masterpiece of Dravidian architecture, there are some fragmentary inscriptions dating back to 1250 A.D.

Day 3, ONWARDS FROM CHENNAI

Your stay ends after breakfast. Chennai forms a perfect base to follow the Temple Trail of Tamil Nadu and Jungles & Backwaters of Kerala.

If you would like to spend time on The Emerald Isles, then you should take a flight from Chennai to Port Blair, the entry point for a stay on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Virtually unexplored and unknown to the outside world, this idyllic tropical paradise has recently opened up to foreign visitors, offering a most exotic and relaxing holiday on its beautiful palm fringed beaches and turquoise blue waters.

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Tailor-made Suggestions

Ideas to personalize this sample itinerary:

There are plenty of ways to change this sample itinerary, either to extend your stay or experience different areas in more detail.

The only heritage hotel in Chennai

Stay at the Taj Connemara, the most atmospheric hotel in Chennai with splendid art deco features.

A nearby beach favourite

Stay at the Ideal Beach Resort in Mamallapuram, situated a short drive south of Chennai.

Another beach alternative

INDeco Mahabalipuram greets you with a warm smile, a refreshing welcome drink and a relaxing foot massage.

Fact Finder for this Tour

Highlights
  • Enjoy Chennai's lengthy 12 kilometer (eight mile) stretch of beach
  • Visit the captivating Kapaleswar Temple and Sri Parthasarathy Temple
  • Explore Fort Saint George, the Government Museum, National Gallery, and old churches
Duration

Departure

Daily from Chennai
Not advisable in May and June (due to uncomfortable heat)

Price

From 203 USD per person - based on 2 people sharing

Inclusions
  • Accommodation on twin share basis at selected hotel
  • Stay on bed & breakfast basis
  • English-speaking local guide for tour of Chennai
  • Transport by air-conditioned vehicle with private chauffeur
  • All transfers as per the itinerary
Tour price excludes
  • International flights
  • Entrance fees to historical monuments